NASCAR Holiday 2 by Pamela Britton, Gina Wilkins, Ken Casper, Abby Gains

This book features four short stories by four authors of the NASCAR themed books. A worthwhile read for any fans of the NASCAR books.

Details: Harper, November 2007

Excellence Rating: Very Good

Sealed with a Kiss by Carly Philips

The sequel to Cross My Heart is a fun romp, featuring the two characters you’d knew deserved their own story. Carly delivered a great story with a lot of conflict between the characters as well as a nice mystery for them to solve. I highly recommend this book.

Keywords: Details: HQN, November 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

The Life of Reilly by Sue Civil-Brown

This book is set in the same world as her previous HQN novel, Hurricane Hanna. Treasure Island’s school teacher, Lynn Reilly is haunted by her aunt Delphine who seems to be pushing her toward her neighbor Reverend Jack Marks. While I was concerned that a relationship between the heroine and a preacher would be a little boring, Sue seems to find plenty of humor in this story.

Details: HQN, September 2007

Excellence Rating: Very Good

Total Control by Pamela Britton

Pamela Britton + NASCAR = Great story. ‘Nuff said.

Details: HQN, September 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

How To Lose an Extraterrestrial in 10 Days by Susan Grant

Unlike her siblings, Evie Holloway can’t stand the thought of a life of public service. She’s content to focus her energies on raising her children after her divorce and her new chocolate dessert business. When Evie’s sister decides that Evie’s house is the best place to hide the Reef now that the devices that turned the normal man into a killing machine were removed, Evie thinks her sister is crazy and bets her that he’ll be gone in ten days. Unfortunately her sister took the bet and now Evie is stuck with the alien. At first Evie was worried Reef would break her bones if he stays, but now that he wants to return home she’s worried he’ll break her heart if he leaves.

This story is a sequel to My Favorite Earthling and Your Planet or Mine? and these books should be read first to fully appreciate everything included in this story. As usual, Susan did a great job with the characters, giving them enough conflicts to keep things moving along at a fast pace. Given the way the story ended, I really hope I get to read more about this universe. Recommended.

Details: HQN, July 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

Cross My Heart by Carly Phillips

Rather than let her uncle continue to abuse her, Lilly Dumont faked her own death with the help of her boyfriend, Ty Benson and ran away to the big city at the age of 16. Ten years later her uncle is about to declare Lilly legally dead and claim her trust fund. Ty decides that the choice really belongs to Lilly, so he tracks her to the city and brings her back only get her involved in the middle of a conspiracy. Now Lilly and Ty have to find out who’s behind the nefarious scheme before they find a way to make Lilly disappear permanently.

This is a must read book for all of Carly’s fans. Great characters, plus a solid plot make for an interesting summer read. The sequel to this book, Sealed with a Kiss is already available in hardcover. What are you waiting for? Go get this book.

Details: HQN, June 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

It Must Be Magic by Jennifer Skully

Lili Goodweather’s gift allows her to communicate with animals, including Fluffy the cat who lives next door. But when Fluffy is the only eyewitness to a murder, Lili drags Fluffy’s owner along to find the murder victim. While Tanner Rutland enjoys Lili’s company, he doesn’t believe that Lili can talk to animals. And even when they find the victim, it's easier for him to believe Lili was the murderer than she talks to cats. Unfortunately the real killer isn't happy with the attention and soon Lili finds herself in danger. Now will Tanner finally accept Lili's gifts or will Lili find herself at the mercy of a murderer?

I’ve come to expect something a little different Jennifer’s books and this one is no exception. The mystery component of the story is well done and her quirky characters are simply great. A very enjoyable book.

Details: HQN, June 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

Code Name: Bikini by Christina Skye

Trace O’Halloran is under strict orders to rest so he can recover after his latest mission and a cruise ship looks like the perfect choice to spend his time. Just as Trace starts to relax and enjoy the company of the ship’s dessert chef, an old enemy appears and he’s forced back into active duty despite his less than perfect condition. Gina Ryan’s life is slowly descending to hell as her past secrets and her current secrets combine to insure she won’t have a future. To make things worse, she finally meets the perfect man, a man who’s fighting a covert battle on her cruise ship. Now will Gina join forces with Trace to defeat the ultimate evil or will Gina’s problems finally overwhelm her?

My only problem with this book was that I had to wait two months more than a year for it to be released . I particularly loved the heroine’s challenge, which you’ll need to discover for yourself since I don’t want to spoil the story . Now if only Christina would abandon her historicals, she could focus on her Navy SEALs we wouldn’t have to wait so long between stories .

Details: HQN, June 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

All About Evie by Beth Ciotta

Evie Parish’s ex-husband dumped her in favor of a younger woman, but when the producers dumped her for a younger woman at her latest audition, she went crazy and flashed the audience. Knowing that finding work after that stunt would be challenging, Evie jumped at the change for a gig on a cruise ship. Only the gig wasn’t a show. She was supposed to be arm candy for an older man, but the man proved to be the master of disguise and underneath the makeup and costumes he was an absolute hunk. Unfortunately, the hunk had plans – dangerous plans and plans that might leave her on the wrong side of the law. Now will Evie's attraction to the mysterious man guide her actions straight into jail?

I loved this story, especially since the heroine is a bit older than the average 20-something. Evie is filled with spunk and isn’t ready to let age rule her life. There’s plenty of humor throughout the story and as well as a plot with enough suspense to keep you turning the pages quickly. Try it. I think you’ll love it.

Details: HQN, May 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: yummy

She’s No Angel by Leslie Kelly

Trouble, Pennsylvania is the perfect place for Jennifer Feeney’s aunts considering the headaches they’ve caused lately. But Jen never figured they’d steal her car and leave her stranded without shoes in the middle of nowhere. Police detective Mike Taylor was on his way to visit his grandfather when he spotted the tall, sexy brunette walking along the side of the road. However despite their attraction to each other, neither one was willing to give up control to the other, which left both extremely unsatisfied. Meanwhile Jen’s problems spiraled out of control and so did Mike’s, and so when someone tried to kill them they had no idea which one was the target. Now can they solve the case before the murder strikes again, or will the murderer get them both.

I love the characters Leslie created, including the secondary characters who play an interesting part in the story. If you’ve been following the Trouble books, this is a must read as most of the secrets in the overall story arc will be revealed. I think you’ll love the story line and I’m looking forward to seeing Leslie’s next story theme.

Details: Tor, June 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: yummy

Animal Instincts by Gena Showalter

After escaping a particularly nasty divorce, Naomi Delacroix is working hard to establish her new party planning business when she gets a call from the multi-millionaire Royce Powell. Royce hopes his scheme to hire Naomi to plan a surprise party for his mother will give him the opportunity to learn more about the woman he fell in love with at first sight. While Naomi hasn’t met Royce before, she’s flattered by his attention. But she can’t fathom why Royce’s mother is running ads for a bride for her son and doesn’t want to compete with the hundreds of women who are filling out applications by the hundreds. To make matters worse, Royce is a controlling person just like her ex which leaves Naomi uncertain about any long term relationships with the man. Now can Naomi overcome her fears or will Royce have to settle for one of the hundreds of other women vying for his attention?

Unlike Gena’s other books, this one is well grounded in reality – or maybe I should just state that this one doesn’t have a paranormal aspect. It’s a very cute story, filled with conflict within Naomi that she needs to resolve before she can accept another man into her life. I loved the way she painted some of the scenes in the book. For instance, early in the book there was a line of women waiting to apply for a role as Royce’s wife and Naomi remained completely clueless about what was going on. The rest of the book is filled with the same sort of quirky humor. So if you're looking for something a little different, I think this story is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Details: HQN, April 2007

Excellence Rating: Very Good

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

The Nymph King by Gena Showalter

Nymphs require lots of sex in order to stay strong, and the warrior king Valerian needs it more than most. But when he and his loyal men become separated from their women, Valerian stages an attack on the world outside Atlantis to get the women they so desperately need. Shaye Holling was guilty of nothing more than attending a wedding when she finds an army of hunks climb out of the water. Unable to defend herself, she soon finds in a strange place with a group of women who were also at the wedding. When Valerian sees Shaye for the first time, he realizes that she’s his life mate and no other women can satisfy him. Unfortunately Shaye doesn’t see things quite the same way and wants Valerian to return her to the surface. But when Valerian faces his enemy, will he be able to convince Shaye that they belong together or will Shaye become responsible for his downfall.

This book picks up where Jewel of Atlantis ends, but with a completely different cast of characters. Conflict abounds between Shaye and Valerian as Valerian works to convince Shaye that they belong together. The ending was a bit of a letdown, as everything came together just a bit too neatly. I’ll guess we’ll have to wait until next spring to see if Gena releases another novel set in the mythical world of Atlantis. In the mean time, we’ll just have to wait and see what other worlds will spring from Gena’s creative mind.

Details: HQN, February 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

My Favorite Earthling by Susan Grant

Knowing the fate of the Earth hangs in the balance, Jared Jasper is willing to sacrifice himself to insure its continued safety. Of course getting engaged with the sexy warrior-queen, Keira is not without its own benefits Keira knows that protecting her people is her number one priority and the best way to do that is to marry the prince of Earth before Earth has a chance to disrupt galactic politics. Of course adapting to married life is someone challenging for Jared, especially when his wife carries around a plasma sword for fun. But someone else has plans for Keria – one where Jared won’t fit. Now can Jared protect his wife to save the Earth or will Jared start an interstellar war?

Picking up where Your Planet or Mine left off, Susan tells the tale of Jana Jasper’s brother. Like the first story, this one is full of humor and just enough danger to keep me turning pages. If you like romance with a sci-fi twist, you’d better move this book to the top of the heap.

Details: HQN, March 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Yummy

To the Limit by Pamela Britton

Kristen McKenna's life has always revolved around speed. When she was younger, she was a promising open wheel race car and now she’s an aerospace engineer. But when mega-billionaire Matthew Knight, owner of the company she works for, purchases a NASCAR race team, Kristen finds herself with the opportunity to become involved with racing again. Matthew finds himself instantly taken with the young woman, but his dedication to his career has left him ill prepared to romance Kristen. To make matters more complicated, Matthew’s driver, Todd Peters also finds himself attracted to the lovely scientist and unlike his boss, Todd has had plenty of practice seducing women. Kristen is surprised by the attention of the two handsome men and isn’t quite sure what to do about it, especially when she’s forced to choose between them. But will Kirsten risk Mathew’s wrath by dating Todd or will she date Mathew knowing that with him, his business will always come first?

If there’s one thing I can count on, it’s Pamela’s newest NASCAR novel will always capture my attention. I love her attention to detail as she manages to portray the details of a life immersed in NASCAR more accurately than any other author I’ve read. While this story sometimes goes over the top when portraying Mathew and his business, I found the love triangle intriguing. She did a great job of keeping you guessing which man she’ll pick. If you like NASCAR and romantic love triangles, then this is the book for you.

Details: HQN, March 2007

Excellence Rating: Great

Steaminess Factor: Romantic

Blame it on Cupid by Jennifer Greene

Merry Olson understood what it was like to grow up without a mother, so when her friend Charlie Ross died leaving his eleven year old daughter alone, Merry immediately left Minnesota and headed for Virginia. What Merry didn’t expect was that Charlene is having serious trouble adapting to life after her dad’s death. Fortunately Merry was able to turn to her next door neighbor, Jack Mackinnon a divorced hunk with two sons for parenting advice. While Jack finds Merry’s form pleasing to the eye, he finds the way she does most things to be a bit strange. Still, he can’t help but feel sorry for both girls, so with his son’s encouragement, he finds himself becoming more involved in their lives, despite his desire to remain single after his bitter divorce. Now can Merry find a way to balance her need for Jack with her new role as single parent or will she lose them both forever?

This was a cute book with great characters that will bring a smile to your face. I like the collection of problems Jennifer left for Merry to overcome, and new ones seemed to pop up when least expected. The combination of details and confused emotions were very enjoyable and you felt as if everything was up in the air until nearly the last page. This is a much better book then Blame it on Chocolate and I recommend it if you love books involving single parents and children.

Score: Very good

Details: HQN, December 2006

Beyond The Limit by Lindsay McKenna

Major Pete Trayhern’s newest assignment is to build a power plant near the Afghanistan mountains. While the Marines have prepared him to overcome challenges such as the desert climate and problems with the Taliban, nothing has prepared him for his site project engineer, Calandra Roland. Cali has proven herself in several major construction projects in the Middle East and is ready for her next challenge, but the electricity between Pete and herself may prove to be their undoing. The only option open to Pete and Cali is to be strictly professional. But when the danger surrounding them escalates, can Pete and Cali stay professional or will their feelings for each other betray them?

The slow pace to this book leaves Lindsay to fully develop the characters and their feelings for each other. I spent half of the book screaming at the characters to speak what’s on mind so they could get together. But without the simmer of the first half, you wouldn’t have had the emotionally charged second half. Not every book affects me the way this one did. I hope it does the same for you too.

Score: Great

Details: HQN, December 2006

A NASCAR Holiday by Kimberly Raye, Roxanne St. Claire, Debra Webb

In Ladies, Start Your Engines by Kimberly Raye, Savannah Calloway sets out to help NASCAR Cup driver Mackenzie Briggs win the New Year’s Eve charity race. But Mackenzie sets out to win Savannah’s heart instead. Now can Mackenzie finish first in both races or will Savannah be left on the pits?

In ‘Tis The Silly Season by Roxanne St. Claire, Lisa Mahoney a divorced mother of two is barely making ends meet as a waitress when NASCAR Busch racer Clay Slater hires Lisa to pose as his family at Christmas in order to land a spot with a NASCAR Cup team. But just how far will Lisa go in order to help Clay win?

In Unbreakable by Debra Webb, Dr. Maxine Gray’s research into athletics brings her to a NASCAR Cup team to answer the age old question: “Are race drivers real athletes?” Fortunately she has NASCAR Cup driver Rush Jackson at her disposal. But can Max wrap up her research before Christmas Eve or will she become another member of Rush’s team?

All three stories are very cute and full of emotion. They manage to keep things rated PG with no explicit sex described within. While I know that this is part of the style, I also think a peek inside the bedroom every now and then wouldn’t hurt ;) . The only flaw I found was some of the more esoteric details about the cars and the NASCAR circuit could have benefited from some more research. Unfortunately, Pamela Britton has set the bar very high for all NASCAR books with her devotion to detail. So unless you’re an auto mechanic or uber-NASCAR fan, you probably wouldn’t notice anything. This book is a must buy for anyone who enjoys NASCAR.

Details: HQN, November 2006

Bottom line: A very good book

Anyone But You by Jennifer Crusie

Fresh from her divorce, Nina Askew is looking forward to living her own life for a change. Instead of living the life that her husband’s job demanded, she has her own job, her own apartment, and she even has her own dog named Fred. Now she finds herself one flight up from Alex Moore, an ER doctor who’s being pressured to conform to his family’s expectations, who’s ten years younger. But can the ER doc bridge the gap between them or will Fred be forced to come to the rescue

Fresh from her divorce, Nina Askew is looking forward to living her own life for a change. Instead of living the life that her husband’s job demanded, she has her own job, her own apartment, and she even has her own dog named Fred. Now she finds herself one flight up from Alex Moore, an ER doctor who’s being pressured to conform to his family’s expectations, who’s ten years younger. But can the ER doc bridge the gap between them or will Fred be forced to come to the rescue

Details: HQN, November 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Playing with Fire by Gena Showalter

Belle Jamison never wanted to be a super hero, she just wanted to find a job that she could hold onto for more than a couple of weeks. After a crazed man disrupts the coffee shop where Belle works, she tries to relax and sip her cup of Grande Mocha Latte. The next thing she knows, she’s so sick she wishes she could die and a man – Rome Masters – is standing over her waiting for her to get better. Soon Belle learns that she has power over the four elements: fire, water, air and earth and that Rome’s assignment is to kill her if she learns how to use those powers. But she sees something special inside Rome and when she accidently torches his apartment, Rome saves her life. Now Belle must decide if Rome saved her because she’s special to him or is he just playing with her before he carries out his orders.

This is a hot story (okay, I just couldn’t resist that one :) ) told in first person from Belle’s point of view. I loved the characters – and not just Belle and Rome but the entire cast and some of the unique roles they played in the story. The story ends in such a way that I expect to see more of the characters in a future book and my only hope is that I don’t have to wait another year to see the sequel.

Details: HQN, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book

Sheer Dynamite by Jennifer Skully

Opal Smith is uniquely normal for her family. While her mother, brother and sister are certified psychics, she feels cheated by her lack of abilities and wishes she could find that particular skill that would make her complete. So while driving one day, she has a vision of a body falling from a bridge onto the highway. Thinking this might be her gift, she slams on her brakes and finds herself the first car in a three car pileup. Jack Davis spent a good chunk of his life rescuing his mother from one ordeal after another. So when he runs into the beautiful girl’s rear end, his rescue instincts kicked in and soon Jack finds himself helping Opal to prove that her vision was real. But will Jack settle for being Opal’s knight in shining armor or will he risk everything to win Opal’s love.

Jennifer did it again. While the book started out slow, it finished with a bang (pun intended). Once I got past the middle of the book, I just couldn’t put it down. I liked the weird collection of characters that made up Opal’s family and how everything came together. Definitely enjoyable and worth reading.

Details: HQN, September 2006

Bottom line: A great book